Black Tennis Pros

To mark the forthcoming Sony Ericsson Open, the tournament celebrated by hosting the world’s first ever game of tennis on water. Two of the world's leading tennis players, Serena Williams and Rafael Nadal, took to a custom-made court to try their luck on a more challenging surface than usual. The revolutionary game took place at the top of the new Gansevoort South Hotel as it officially opened its doors for the first time. The water-covered court was constructed in the 110ft swimming pool set in the Gansevoort's exclusive 22,000sqft rooftop retreat overlooking Miami's South Beach.

Defending Sony Ericsson Open Champion Serena Williams commented "It was a once in a lifetime chance to play tennis on water and it was great to be involved in a true world first. Playing against Rafa was a new challenge but I think the surface helped to level the playing field - particularly as he volunteered to play at the deep end!'

After the photo shoot, Rafael Nadal commented 'I love playing on ALL surfaces, but this was different and playing against Serena made it even more special. Playing a game on water was a first for me, and I also liked the setting here in Miami overlooking the ocean since I love the sea'.